Conservation Status and Classification

How vulnerable is a natural community to being eliminated? How similar or dissimilar is it to other natural communities? These questions are answered by naming and classifying natural communities, which helps us identify them and understand where each is found.

The U.S. National Vegetation Classification is the standard often used to classify natural communities.

Other Websites

Rock Creek Park

The U.S. National Vegetation Classification

Conservation Status

Conservation status indicates how vulnerable a natural community is. Learn more about conservation status, which can be measured globally and regionally.

Global Conservation Status: GNR – Not yet assessed
Subnational Conservation Status:
D.C.: SNR – Not yet assessed

Classification

Official names reduce the confusion by providing a common language for talking about natural communities. Why so many names?

Abbreviated Common Name: Coastal Plain Oak Forest
Common Name: Mesic Oak Forest (Coastal Plain)
Scientific Name Translated: Southern Red Oak - Swamp Chestnut Oak / American Holly Forest
Classification Code: CEGL006390